Protecting Biodiversity by Supporting People

Nam Gnouang Dam, Bolikhamxay Province.

© Conservation International/photo by Jack Tordoff

Establishing and Piloting a Payment for Ecosystem Services Model in Lao PDR

Grantee Name: Wildlife Conservation Society

Hotspot: Indo-Burma
Location: Lao People's Democratic Republic
Amount: $299,908
Dates: Mar 2016 – May 2021
Keywords: Community-based conservation, Erosion, Forestry, Hydropower, Indigenous People, Livelihoods, Payment for Ecosystem Services, Private sector, Restoration, Soil conservation

Promote payment for ecosystem services as a mechanism for financing reforestation and forest protection in the catchment and offset areas of hydropower projects in Lao PDR through the demonstration of pilot activities in Nam Gnouang South protection forest. Identify best practice methods; test contracting modalities, revenue management schemes and community structures; and engage with key stakeholders to promote uptake into policy.

Strategic Direction : 6 Engage key actors in mainstreaming biodiversity, communities and livelihoods into development planning in the priority corridors